While the COVID-19 pandemic may seem like it's in the rearview mirror, many people are still struggling with the long-term effects of the disease. According to the CDC, at one point in 2022, 1 in 5 adults who contracted the virus were still experiencing long COVID. Although the numbers have decreased since then, the effects of long COVID can be debilitating for those still suffering.

In response to the growing concern, Aspen Orthopedic Pain and Spine is offering groundbreaking treatment for people dealing with long COVID symptoms that have persisted for months or even years.

Long COVID, a term coined in the early days of the pandemic when people experienced lingering symptoms, is not a single condition but rather a range of potentially overlapping entities with different causes and outcomes, as stated by the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

Severe cases of COVID-19 increase the chances of experiencing lasting or multiorgan effects, such as diabetes, heart problems, or neurological issues. One prominent symptom experienced by many COVID patients is the loss of taste and smell, known as parosmia. The loss of these basic human senses can significantly impact everyday life.

Aspen Orthopedic Pain and Spine presents Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB), a nerve-blocking treatment that has shown promising results in long COVID patients. SGB is a well-established treatment utilized for chronic pain management, headaches, excessive sweating, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By injecting into the nerves at the base of the neck, SGB helps block signals from the sympathetic nervous system, acting as a reset button for the nervous system and aiding in the recovery of taste and smell senses.

A 2022 study conducted by the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center supports the use of Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) for long COVID patients. The study found that SGB can potentially alleviate the loss of smell and taste caused by long COVID by diminishing increased sympathetic activity.

Dr. Greg Condie and his dedicated team at Aspen Orthopedic Pain and Spine are focused on restoring patients' optimal functionality and movement. By addressing the root cause of pain and providing quality care, they aim to help patients regain control of their lives one step at a time.

It's worth noting that Aspen Orthopedic Pain and Spine is currently the only facility in Utah offering this specific treatment for long COVID. While the state has several clinics specializing in mitigating the lingering effects of the virus, Aspen Orthopedic Pain and Spine takes a holistic approach, considering the whole body in their treatment plans.

Early treatment plays a vital role in improving a patient's quality of life both in the short and long term. Don't delay in seeking the necessary help. Schedule an appointment with Aspen Orthopedic Pain and Spine to take back control of your life and find relief from the long-lasting effects of COVID-19.